1981 Mazda 121 vs. 2008 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2008 Nissan Altima is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,491 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 121.
Because 1981 Mazda 121 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1981 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Nissan Altima (245 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 121. (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Mazda 121 | 2008 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | 121 | Altima |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2491 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 86 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 161 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2680 mm |